Shadowbox Fence - An In-Depth Look
If you're not sure what a shadowbox fence is or if it is the best option for you, click on each of the following sections to learn more.
Want to install the perfect, affordable shadowbox fencing? Contact us.
Shadowbox Fence
Image Source: April Wilkerson
Shadowbox fencing is a special type of privacy fence
1. What is a shadowbox fence?
A shadowbox fence is a type of privacy fence that resembles a standard picket fence when you look at it straight on. However, the vertical boards of the fence are not attached to the same side of the horizontal rails. Instead, they are alternately attached with one board fastened to the front of the rail and the next one to the back of the rail.
The pickets overlap slightly so that you can't see clearly through them. This alternating pattern is continued down the length of the fence. The pickets on the same sides of the fence are spaced 2 to 3 inches apart. This formation makes a space in the fence that resembles a "box".
2. Is shadowbox fencing more expensive?
Shadowbox fencing uses a few more boards and is a bit more difficult to build than a traditional privacy fence. This means that they are usually a bit more expensive.
However, because of its attractive appearance and better durability, it is usually worth the extra investment.
Image Source: Jez Dace
Shadowbox fencing is very attractive and durable
3. What are the benefits of a shadowbox fence?
There are many great benefits to installing a shadowbox fence including:
They are aesthetically pleasing:
The unusual design of a shadowbox fence makes it more visually appealing than a traditional privacy fence that has all of its pickets on one side. Shadowbox fences also look great whether you are looking at them from inside or outside your yard. This means that you can enjoy the beauty of your fence when you are in your yard and provide maximum curb appeal for those passing by.
They are extremely durable:
Because shadowbox fences are constructed with the pickets attached to alternating sides, they are more durable than fences with the pickets all on the same side. This special design means that the weight of the fence is distributed more evenly among the rails. As a result, your fence is less likely to sag and there is a smaller chance of your pickets falling off.
They let in light and air:
The separations of a shadowbox fence will allow more light and air to pass through than a solid privacy fence does. This means that your yard will seem brighter and on warmer days, the separations between the pickets can allow cool breezes to pass through.
They offer a more open feeling:
One of the drawbacks of a solid privacy fence is the feeling that you are totally closed in. Shadowbox fencing gives you the privacy you want, while still feeling a bit more open. If you go close up to it you can still peek through, which is especially nice if you have children or pets who are curious about what is happening on the other side of your fence. Being able to see through the cracks in the fence can discourage the urge to climb up and peer over the top.
Image Source: April Wilkerson
Shadowbox fencing will allow for more airflow into your yard
4. What type of wood should you use?
There are different types of wood to consider when building a shadowbox fence.
Cedar:
Cedar is a great choice because:
It has a tight grain and fewer knots
It has a beautiful red colour
It doesn't warp or shrink
It lasts long
It is naturally resistant to insects and decay
Cedar posts submerged in the ground, however, will rot after time, so it is a good idea to have them installed into a concrete base or use pressure-treated fence posts.
Redwood and teak:
Redwood and teak will give you a beautiful-looking fence, but they are very expensive to buy. Redwood and teak are both naturally resistant to insects, shrinking, warping, and decay. These woods are a nice option if you are using them for a smaller shadowbox fence around a spa or a pool.
Pressure or chemically-treated wood:
Pressure or chemically-treated wood is a good choice for your fence posts because they are both insect and moisture resistant. The problem with using pressure-treated wood for your fence pickets, however, is that they often warp or twist after they are installed.
Image Source: Jez Dace
Cedar is a good choice for fencing
5. How do you maintain a shadowbox fence?
In order to keep your shadowbox fence looking its best and lasting for years, you need to do regular maintenance just like you would for other styles of wood fencing.
Stain or paint:
You will need to stain or paint your fence to protect it. Staining costs a bit more, but paint will crack and peel over time meaning that you will need to do regular touch-ups. You will probably need to stain or paint every 2 to 3 years or when it shows signs of wear. If your fence faces south, you will probably have to do it more often as it will have increased exposure to UV light.
Rot or mildew:
You will also need to inspect your fence on a regular basis to check for signs of rot or mildew, especially if you live in an area that has high humidity. You should also check it after a prolonged period of rain. If you see signs of mildew, you should treat it with a mildew cleaner or with a solution of dishwashing liquid and warm water. You should also clear any old leaves or dirt from around the base of your fence to keep it from developing mould.
If you have your fence built from higher quality wood such as cedar or if you use pressure treated wood, you will have less maintenance.
Shadowbox fencing will need regular maintence like other styles of wood fencing
For Professional Installations, Contact Citywide
With Citywide Fences & Decks, you'll enjoy personal service like no other. If you are looking for the best fencing at an affordable price, contact Citywide.
Our expertise and unmatched customer service have earned us a reputation for the finest craftsmanship, professionalism and friendliness in the industry. Not only will you appreciate your new fence, but you will also enjoy working with us.
Citywide Fences & Decks is a locally owned and operated business based in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. We have been proudly serving our community with the highest quality services for more than 13 years.
The services we offer include:
We provide free estimates, friendly expert advice, and a range of products and options to transform your property into something truly spectacular and functional. Contact us today for your free quote.
What our customers are saying…
“Highly recommend! Professional, conscientious and trust worthy company. We are extremely happy with both our new fence and lawn drainage system. Employees were hard working and obviously dedicated. Dave explained the process for each project and went above and beyond to personally ensure we were satisfied with the completed projects. Both our fence and drainage system were completed in the agreed time frame as discussed and meet our high standards.”